Purple bell vine

Rhodochiton atrosanguineus, commonly known as the purple bell vine, is an exotic-looking climber that is treated as a tender annual in the UK. This Mexican native is celebrated for its unusual and elegant pendulous flowers, which consist of a persistent, rose-pink heart-shaped calyx and a long, dark purple tubular corolla hanging beneath. It is a fast-growing vine that uses its twisting leaf stalks to climb trellises, obelisks, or hanging baskets. In the British climate, it needs a warm, sheltered spot in full sun to thrive and produce its prolific blooms from midsummer until the first frosts. It is ideally suited for a conservatory or a sunny patio container. Despite its delicate appearance, it is relatively easy to grow from seed if started early in heat. The dark foliage provides a lush backdrop to the maroon flowers, adding a touch of Victorian elegance to any garden setting. As it is frost-tender, it will not survive a UK winter outdoors.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Moist but well-drained loam.

Hardiness: H2 — down to 1°C.

Flowering: Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct.